In the realm of Ghanaian creativity, one organization that has captured the attention of many is the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO).
Not only does GHAMRO play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of artists, but it also represents a sizeable number of individuals, including musicians, songwriters, and producers.
However, GHAMRO has had its fair share of challenges and controversies, with issues surrounding leadership crises and contentious elections frequently making headlines.
When Rex Omar assumed the position of chairman in 2017, there were hopes for a new era of stability and progress. Yet, the past seven years have been marked by some of the most controversial times in the organization’s history.
The Organization
Established under section 49 of the Copyright Law, Act 690 of 2005, and regulated by L.I. 1962 of 2010, the Ghana Music Rights Organization (GHAMRO) is tasked with collecting and distributing royalties on behalf of authors, composers, and other right owners.
As a non-profit corporate body, GHAMRO distributes all fees collected among the right owners based on the use of their works. The organization was officially formed in December 2011, taking over from the Copyright Society of Ghana (COSGA), which was established in 1986.
After a series of transitions, Rex Omar took over as Chairman in 2017, following in the footsteps of notable predecessors like Kojo Antwi.
The Man
Rex Omar, a well-respected musician and intellectual property rights expert, has been at the helm of GHAMRO for the past seven years. With a background in copyright advocacy and music industry management, he has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s direction.
His leadership has seen GHAMRO undergo significant transformations, including more frequent royalty distributions, improved welfare systems, and increased collaborations with international partners like CAPASSO.
The Work
Under Rex Omar’s guidance, GHAMRO has made substantial progress in enhancing its operations and services for members. The organization now distributes royalties twice a year, has secured significant partnerships, and is on the verge of launching the GHAMRO Information System (GHAMIS) to digitize processes.
Notably, GHAMRO, under Rex Omar’s leadership, has distributed over 11 million GHC in royalties and made significant welfare payments to support aging musicians.
Despite these achievements, there is still room for improvement in areas such as public relations and transparency. To fully realize its potential, GHAMRO must address these challenges and continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of its members.
The Future
As GHAMRO navigates the complexities of leadership under Rex Omar, the organization faces a critical juncture in its history. With a renewed focus on accountability, communication, and member engagement, GHAMRO has the opportunity to redefine its legacy and fulfill the aspirations of its stakeholders.
While challenges remain, the potential for GHAMRO to thrive and support Ghanaian musicians is within reach. By building on its achievements and addressing its shortcomings, GHAMRO can pave the way for a brighter future for the country’s creative industry.
